Cambridge and the Fens

Itinerary:

Monday
Depart Leyland at 09.00hrs for our journey to the Cambridge Belfry with a lunch stop in at the National Memorial Arboretum en-route. Depart the NMA at 14.00hrs to continue our journey to the Cambridge Belfry, receive a warm welcome with tea/coffee on arrival while your case is taken to your room.

Tuesday
Following breakfast today's excursion takes us to the stunning university city of Cambridge, a city of beautiful architecture and picturesque scenery, perhaps visit one of the colleges and chapels, take a stroll or punt along the River Cam, visit the Fitzwilliam Museum or the university of Cambridge modern and contemporary art gallery Kettle's Yard, with a great collection of shops, cafes and restaurants available Cambridge is a great place to visit. Re-join the coach at 14.30hrs, before heading back to the hotel visit Cambridge American Cemetery on a hillside spot on the edge of the city, a place of stillness and reflection, the only military cemetery that commemorates American servicemen and civilians in the UK. Notable servicemen remembered at the site include Joseph P Kennedy, older brother to future American President John F Kennedy, who was lost in the skies over Norfolk in 1944 whilst on a secret mission and big band leader Glen Miller (Major Alton Glen Miller) named on the 'Wall of the Missing'.

Wednesday
Following a leisurely start todays visit takes us to the historic market town of St Ives, perhaps take a sail on the Great Ouse, enjoy picture-perfect riverside and historic 15th century bridge views from a riverside café, discover the towns monument of Oliver Cromwell, or visit Hyperion Auctions, Antique Centre and Courtyard full of independent traders or relax in one of the towns many cafes, inns and restaurants, with time to explore and obtain lunch. Depart St Ives at 14.30hrs to return to the hotel to relax or perhaps take a dip in the hotel pool.

Thursday
Today's excursion takes us into the Fens to the pretty, pocket-sized city of Ely famous for its magnificent cathedral and connection to Oliver Cromwell. Perhaps visit the stunning 'Ship of the Fens', with breathtaking Romanesque interior the cathedral dominates the skyline atop the highest hill in the Fens, this beautiful cathedral was founded as a monastery by Ethelreda, daughter of a Saxon king. Included today is a visit to Oliver Cromwell's House, with costumed guide to enhance our visit of the former Lord Protector's family home. Enjoy free time to explore the tiny city of Ely and obtain lunch. Depart Ely at 15.00hrs.

Friday
Check out of our hotel following breakfast for the return journey home with a lunch stop at RAF Cosford en-route. Depart Raf Cosford at 14.30hrs to continue our journey home.